Raspberry Leaf Tea Pregnancy: Facts and Fictions?

It’s no secret that, for centuries, the consumption of Raspberry Leaf Tea has been associated with the improvement/relief of a number of different pregnancy-related issues.

From reducing morning sickness to toning your uterine wall, easing contractions to balancing postpartum hormones, this alleged wonder-brew has been often treasured by expecting mothers.

But, is there any truth to this? The answer is: absolutely, yes. However, it is important to note what is fact and what is fiction, and there are many conflicting studies currently on the internet.

Here at the Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, we have brought you all the information you could possibly need on Raspberry Leaf Tea, even if you are not pregnant. Be sure to read on, and find out how this herbal tea can benefit you during pregnancy, as well as in your day-to-day life!

History of Raspberry Leaf Tea:

The Raspberry plant can be found in both the ‘Old World’ and the ‘New World’, and has been consumed in tea form for hundreds of years. It was especially popular in the Americas before European Colonisation, where it was often consumed by many Native American tribes for various herbal remedies.

The Chippewa and Omaha tribes used the roots of the Raspberry plant to treat bowel problems such as dysentery and diarrhoea, while the Appalachia used roots in tea form to relieve haemorrhaging or haemophilia.

Since the mid-20th Century, however, Science has played a vital role in furthering our knowledge regarding the true benefits of Raspberry Leaf Tea consumption. In 1941, the first Scientific Study on this beverage would be conducted, followed by further research in 1954. In 1970, another evaluation would take place using rats, with the end-result determining a correlation between the consumption of Raspberry Leaf Tea and the improved effectiveness of contractions. (A little too much rodent information? We know.)

Today, human studies are still ongoing; with no definitive answer as of yet. Some studies have provided in-depth information on how drinking Raspberry Leaf Tea can aid you during pregnancy, while others have made attempts to disprove these theories. It is important that you know the facts before you decide, so let’s explore all aspects of this beverage; from what it is, to all the many other health benefits that are currently associated with its consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Raspberry Leaf Tea?

Not to be confused with a Raspberry Fruit Tisane, this beverage resembles a particularly floral black tea, as opposed to its namesake. Do not expect fruity flavours or unmistakably raspberry aromas – if this is your preference, please consider one of our other teas, such as Old Love Strawberry and Raspberry Tea, or Summer Raspberry Green Tea. Instead, you will enjoy earthy, grassy aromas with mint and malty undertones. Raspberry leaves are in fact a herbal tea, and does not contain any leaves from the Camellia Sinensis plant, (or, ‘tea plant.)

Is Raspberry Leaf Tea Safe to Drink while Pregnant?

Yes, this beverage is safe to consume while pregnant. However, it should be recognised that many medical professionals believe you should wait until 32 weeks into your pregnancy before brewing up a cup of this herbal tea. Some doctors, nurses and midwifes will even go as far as to suggest waiting 36 weeks.

This is due to concerns that it’s consumption any earlier may have some impact on the pregnancy as this tea is known to stimulate the uterus. That being said, it should be noted that there are no concluding studies to support this claim.

Specialists recommend starting your routine with just one cup a day, and over the course of a few weeks, building this up to two, even three cups daily. Evidence has suggested that, while maintaining this level of consumption during your second trimester, you will have a lower chance of running past 41 weeks of pregnancy.

Can Raspberry Leaf Tea help speed up my labour?

Unfortunately, there is no credible research to indicate any truth behind this. That being said, the Raspberry Leaf Tea is known to be rich in nutrients, including an alkaloid called fragrine, which is believed to strengthen the uterine muscles. This, in turn, could make your contractions more productive, although more research is needed to clarify these findings.

What are the Other benefits to drinking Raspberry Leaf Tea During Pregnancy?

Countless studies have suggested a wide variety of different health benefits associated with consuming this loose leaf tea during pregnancy. You may personally discover that you experience some of these benefits, but not necessarily all of them.

Raspberry Leaf Tea is said to help VBAC (Vagina Birth After C-Section) mums, as well as containing a high mineral count that could, in turn, help develop breast milk.

Further to this, other research has indicated that this tea can improve the strength of the amniotic sac and keep postpartum depression (PPD) at bay after you’ve had your baby.

Does Raspberry Leaf Tea work for Everyone who is Pregnant?

No. depending on circumstances, this beverage will offer more of its benefits to some, and less to others. While this may be frustrating for many, unfortunately, Raspberry Leaf Tea has different effects with different people.

Are there any Negative Side-Effects to Drinking Raspberry Leaf Tea while Pregnant?

The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company recommends you consult a medical professional before consumption if you are overdue. If you are scheduled to have a caesarean, or have had a caesarean before, we would also advise professional consultation.

Many midwives have, themselves, used Raspberry Leaf Tea during their pregnancies, so if you have any other queries, please consider discussing details with them and advice should always come from a medically trained professional. Most will have similar advice, but will also be able to provide you with their own, personal experiences.

Should I drink Raspberry Leaf Tea while I am not Pregnant?

Of course! – In fact, studies have shown Raspberry Leaf Tea’s consumption among men may have the ability to support prostate health, as well as obtaining all the incredible vitamins, minerals and antioxidants found within this brew.

If you are not pregnant, but are trying for a baby, Raspberry Leaf Tea can help curb hormone imbalances in both genders. For example, if men are experiencing too many estrogenic compounds, their reproductive system will suffer. Brewing up a cup of Raspberry Leaf tea will help maintain your levels.

Are there other Health Benefits to Drinking Raspberry Leaves?

Plenty! Aside from its well-documented background with pregnancy, this loose tea can help with a number of different health-related issues. For example, the frequent consumption this tea has often been associated with the improvement of the immune, and cardiovascular system, as well as preventing nausea and other gastrointestinal issues.

Drinking Raspberry Leaf Tea can also help to soothe stomach aches and prevent constipation with its anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, this brew is widely known as a low-calorie tea, with metabolism-stimulating characteristics.

This essentially means that, when consumed alongside a healthy and active lifestyle, Raspberry Leaf Tea can help you to feel full after eating, while also delivering key nutrients and giving your energy levels a tremendous boost!

Now that you know the facts, it is time to experience this marvellous tea for yourself! To start your own journey, and discover the true potential of Raspberry Leaf Tea. We use only the finest ingredients in all of our teas, tisanes and coffees. This brew is no exception, and is likewise equally delicious! We also offer a wide range of other Raspberry Tea products for you to try at your leisure.